FAQ for New Teacher Coach

1. Is New Teacher Coach for first-year teachers only?

We try to avoid using the term “first-year” because we think the resources and tips can help all teachers early in their careers. (We’re still learning new and better strategies to teach in year 20!) 

More specifically, our content focuses on teachers in their first three years.  Although we’re happy to welcome any teacher regardless of their experience level, the truth is that our content is probably not as helpful for veteran teachers.

2. Is New Teacher Coach for elementary school teachers or just middle and high school teachers?

Our own teaching experience is with grades 7-12, so our resources heavily lean in that direction.  If you’re an elementary teacher, consider signing up for the newsletter first and go from there.

3. What are the monthly themes?

The monthly themes run from August through May and roughly coincide with the cycle of a school year.  For example, in August we focus on prepping for the start of school and tackling those first few weeks. Take a look at our complete calendar here.

4. Does your website have “work” or “assignments” for me to complete?

Nope, you have enough to do.  Every article and resource was put together to save you time and stress.  Plus, many new teachers are involved in formal new teacher induction on campus.

Unfortunately, what sometimes happens with site-based support models is that everyone gets busy once school starts.  The new teacher wants to appear as if they have everything under control.  When your friendly mentor peeks their head in to ask how things are going, it’s human nature for you to say, “Great!”

If things are great, that’s wonderful.

But if you don’t have everything under control, that’s where we can help.

5. What help can New Teacher Coach provide that I can’t get from my colleagues?

First of all, you can and should seek help from the teachers in your department and school!  They’ll provide you with the best and most appropriate support for your situation.

When we were new teachers, we would get little nuggets of wisdom here and there from our colleagues – maybe while chatting in the hall or waiting for a department meeting to start. 

Colleague support is great, but also a bit informal and random sometimes.  Our goal is to provide a consistent resource for great answers and helpful resources whenever you need them.